Letters of Helena Roerich Vol.I (1929-1935)

By Helena Roerich

Helena Roerich was an unusually gifted woman, author of many books. Her collected letters, in two volumes, are an example of the wisdom, spiritual insight, and simple advice she shared with a multitude of correspondents—friends, foes, and co-workers alike.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Agni Yoga Society
• Release date: Feb 6, 2017
• ISBN: 9781946742315

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From the Publisher (1954)

The original edition of this book was published in Russian in 1940 by the Latvian Roerich Society in Riga.

The publishers extend grateful acknowledgement to Mme. V. L. Dutko for her penetrative and sensitive work in rendering the first English translation. Without her devotion to this task the present publication would not have been possible.

Agni Yoga Society is honored to present the Letters of Helena Roerich as an integral part of The Teaching of Living Ethics.

Preface to the first edition (1940)

"When the images of great historic figures reach us from remote antiquity they are somehow assimilated in consciousness more easily. Even if they are veiled in myths and legends, they are very convincing. With the passage of time, everything seems possible. Writers and artists of all ages dedicate their best inspirations to these distant images. Whole generations are inspired by these heroes and heroines. No one envies them, and no one ponders at what cost the achievements were performed. What is preserved is purely the record of glorious human ascent.

"It is not quite so with images from the recent past, to say nothing of the present time. Take, for instance, the biographical sketches of the great men of late. So much that is unessential, uncharacteristic, is mentioned regarding them! This only proves that the final essence of their lives has not yet been weighed and appreciated. The most doubtful, the least-proven details are invariably included; hence, the conclusions, if not altogether negative, tend to be depreciative.

"Of course, with passing ages the scales will be balanced. The justice of the people will remove much that obscured the eyes of contemporaries. The judgment of the ages does not necessarily have to demean. Even in the short span of a hundred years we see that a great deal has attained its own balance. The lengthy pages on which the great souls were disparaged have not yet disintegrated. Our grandfathers witnessed how cruel and unjust was the attitude of people toward certain manifestations which, in less than a century, were to become the pride of their country and even of the whole world. And we ourselves are now witnesses of the same.

"Beautiful images are passing before us of men and women who are the true creators of culture. And it would seem desirable to recognize them immediately rather than postpone unnecessarily. Why hide them in the archives and screen them from sight until they grow into a fantasy of the folk imagination?

"Here, we encounter a remarkable contemporary figure, an outstanding Russian woman. Revealing unusual qualities even in childhood, she is seen as a little girl secretly carrying away a heavy volume of Dore's Bible. Bending from its burdensome weight, hiding it from the grown-ups, she has taken the treasure in order to study the illustrations, and eventually (when she teaches herself to read) to study the Testaments.

From her father's bookcase, at an unusually early age, she also took volumes on philosophy. Amidst the noisy, and it seems distracting, environment she was able to develop a profound contemplation of life, as if she had possessed it long ago. Honesty, justice, a constant search for Truth, and love for creative work—all this actually transformed the whole of life around the strong young spirit. And the whole house, the whole family, became directed by the same benevolent principles. All difficulties and dangers were endured under the same stoic leadership. The accumulated knowledge and striving to perfection brought a victorious solution of problems, and this led the surrounding people toward the luminous path. Ignorance, darkness, malice were always acutely sensed. Wherever it was possible, both physical and spiritual healing was performed. Life became full of true labor. From morning till night everything was performed for the benefit of humanity. The broadest correspondence was carried on; books were written; works of many volumes translated; and all this was done in an amazingly tireless spirit. Even the most difficult circumstances were conquered by true faith which became real straight-knowledge. Surely, wonderful accumulations are necessary for such knowledge! All young people should know of this tireless life as a vital example of austere achievements, benevolence, and constructiveness. When the difficulties of this inspirational work are known, it will be particularly helpful toward the realization that incessant advancement can be made. Often, one thinks that everything is hopeless, that good is defenseless against evil, so great are the delusions resulting from human despair. Therefore, real vital examples are indeed most important; and we may rejoice at the encouragement such an example as this provides for all beginners in constructive work. (Nerushimoye) So speaks the authentic witness! We, friends and admirers of the works of Elena Ivanovna [Helena Roerich], can receive fiery flashes of her broad and wise contemplation from her letters, for is not her whole life imbued with fire? The Women's Movement, cosmological researches, the Living Ethics—all these can be found in her letters to friends. Elena Ivanovna was opposed to the publication of her letters, but, we, her numerous friends, have been exchanging copies of what were for us their most precious indications. Eventually we came to the conclusion that, considering the demand for these letters by an increasing number of friends and co-workers, it was necessary to publish them in book form. We applied to E.I. herself, and at last received her permission. Of course, the first volume consists only of a relatively small number of letters, or rather fragments of letters, which in most cases are just the answers to various questions of co-workers. The names of the co-workers and even their places of residence are not mentioned, as what is important is the subject dealt with. As to the correspondents, they themselves know whom the letters concern and on what occasions they were written.

Through the gradual publication of these letters, the breadth of thought of this remarkable Russian woman will be revealed. In Russia as well as abroad during their world travels, she always gave herself in service both to her own country and to humanity.

The Russians have contributed quite a number of remarkable women in various fields of life. One can think of the names of such heroines as Kovalevsky, Blavatsky, Dashkova, Volkonsky, Morozova and many others. From the remote past until now, they have served humanity with their unusual talents and knowledge. The activities of women have been recognized only recently, but already we can see the influence of woman in all spheres: art, literature, philosophy, medicine, education, industry, aviation—in short, wherever the new world is being built. Elena Ivanovna has always been hoping to publish a worthy book, a bibliographical work, dedicated to woman. Moreover, she has never had in view any estrangement from the world; on the contrary, she always thinks of the broadest, closest cooperation, which would forever remove the conventional limitations of ignorance.

Being privileged to present these thoughts of a wonderful woman thinker, the publishers take great pleasure in giving to all seekers of truth and culture the possibility of becoming acquainted with the profoundly penetrative letters of Elena Ivanovna Rerikh.

LETTERS TO AMERICA

1929

My young friends!

From far-off India, the country of beauty, of achievements of the spirit, and of great thought, I send to you who are gathered in the name of the great labor and structure of the future—greetings of the heart! I call you to self-perfection and unlimited attainment.

The book of new discoveries and the light of daring is open before humanity, and you have already heard about the approach of the New Era. Every epoch has its Call, and the calling foundation of the New Era will be the power of thought. That is why we call you to understand the great significance of creative thought, and the first step in this direction will be the opening of consciousness, freedom from all prejudices and from all tendentiousness and forced concepts.

Let us glance at the entire immensity of the night sky. In our thoughts let us fly over the innumerable worlds and the hidden depths of infinite space. Thought in its substance is infinite, and only our consciousness attempts to limit it. Therefore, without delay, let us start the next step—broadening of consciousness. The most ancient wisdom of India says: Thought is the primary source of world creation. The Great Buddha pointed out the meaning of thought which builds our essence. He taught his pupils to broaden their consciousness. Lao Tze, Confucius, Christ—all Teachers of spirit and great thinkers taught the same thing.

The Great Plato said: Thoughts rule the world. And modern scientists, as for instance Professor Compton, have expressed the probability of an active, rational force in every phenomenon of nature, and of the influence of thought upon matter. He concludes with the following remarkable words: Possibly the thoughts of men are the most important factors in the world.

With such broad understanding let us become acquainted with the history of the development of thought. Putting aside all prejudices of place, time and nationality, we, like the bees, shall collect the precious honey of human creative thought!

After placing into the foundation the powerful achievements of those great creators who molded our consciousness, let us begin the third step—the development of our own thought, our own creativeness; and from the new combinations we shall hew sparks of the fire of thought, this crown of the Universe.

Let us remember that a thinking being is never lonely because thought is his greatest magnet and brings similar response from space. Therefore, if we want to receive a beautiful answer we should send into vibrating space our striving thoughts saturated with the pure fire of the heart; only the thought which is spiritualized by striving, nourished by the heart, can create and attract as a powerful magnet. Thought without the striving and flaming quality is sterile. Thus, let us long for knowledge, for broad thoughts, and in our striving we shall dare, as only daring thought molds new ways.

You, my young friends, who have approached art and creation, you should be able to utilize your gifts as a condensation of your forces; for sound and color, thought and rhythm are the foundations of the Universe and of our existence. Sound and color, knowledge and creation are the chalice of Amrita, the Chalice of Immortality!

Eternal, continuous creation of the universal Life surrounds us, and we, being part of this great creation, should create every moment of our life—create by thought, by word, by action.

My young friends, fill up the treasury of your spirit. Absorb all the sounds, all the colors, all the rhythms from the fathomless source of space. These finest vibrations, consciously absorbed, will refine your receptivity and your thought.

The refinement of receptivity will give you the possibility of penetrating into the Sanctuaries of Space, and will open the joyous path of achievement and continuous, endless ascent.

My friends, labor with all the tension of your forces because only by reaching the limit of your tension do new possibilities come to you. The laws are alike in everything. We know that sublime energies are born of the greatest efforts. Therefore, only increased activity and intensified strength will bring the achievement of beauty.

And I beg you, do not fear difficulties. Display readiness to meet all obstacles, for each obstacle strengthens you and leads you to the future victory. Try to love the difficulties, and say, Blessed be the obstacles, through them we grow. Courageously, inspired by striving, realizing the majesty of the endless perfecting of creative life, strive toward the calling Infinity—infinity of lives, infinity of achievements, infinity of knowledge, infinity of construction, infinity of beauty!

My young friends, hearken to the Call of Creative Infinity!

1 March 1929

The approaching great epoch is closely connected with the ascendancy of woman. As in the best days of humanity, the future epoch will again offer woman her rightful place alongside her eternal fellow traveler and co-worker, man. You must remember that the grandeur of the Cosmos is built by the dual Origin. Is it possible, therefore, to belittle one Element of It?

All the present and coming miseries and the cosmic cataclysms to a great degree result from the subjugation and abasement of woman. The dreadful decline of morality, the diseases and degeneration of some nations are also the results of the slavish dependence of woman. Woman is deprived of the greatest human privilege—complete participation in creative thought and constructive work. She is deprived not only of equal rights but, in many countries, of equal education with man. She is not allowed to express her abilities in the building of social and government life, of which, by Cosmic Law and Right, she is a full-fledged member. But a woman slave can give to the world slaves only. The proverb great mother, great son has a cosmic, scientific foundation. As sons mostly take after their mothers, and daughters after fathers, great is cosmic justice! By humiliating woman, man humiliates himself! This explains today the paucity of man's genius.

Could the terrors and crimes of today be possible if both Origins had been balanced? In the hands of woman lies the salvation of humanity and of our planet. Woman must realize her significance, the great mission of the Mother of the World; she should be prepared to take responsibility for the destiny of humanity. Mother, the life-giver, has every right to direct the destiny of her children. The voice of woman, the mother, should be heard amongst the leaders of humanity. The mother suggests the first conscious thoughts to her child. She gives direction and quality to all his aspirations and abilities. But the mother who possesses no thought of culture can suggest only the lower expressions of human nature.

The woman who strives to knowledge and beauty, who realizes her lofty responsibility, will greatly uplift the whole level of life. There will be no place for disgusting vices which lead to the degeneration and destruction of whole countries.

But in her striving toward education, woman must remember that all educational systems are only the means for the development of a higher knowledge and culture. The true culture of thought is developed by the culture of spirit and heart. Only such a combination gives that great synthesis without which it is impossible to realize the real grandeur, diversity, and complexity of human life in its cosmic evolution. Therefore, while striving to knowledge, may woman remember the Source of Light and the Leaders of Spirit—those great Minds who, verily, created the consciousness of humanity. In approaching this Source, this leading Principle of Synthesis, humanity will find the way to real evolution.

And woman is the one who should know and proclaim this leading Principle because from the very beginning she was chosen to link the two worlds, visible and invisible. Woman possesses the power of the sacred life energy. The coming epoch brings knowledge about this great omnipresent energy, which is manifested in all immortal creations of human genius.

Western woman is awake and realizes her powers. Her cultural contributions are already evident. However, the majority of Western women—as with all beginners—start with imitation; whereas, it is in original self-expression that real beauty and harmony are found. Would we like to see man losing the beauty of manhood? The same is true about a man who has a sense of beauty. He certainly does not wish to see a woman imitating his habits and competing with his vices. Imitation always starts with the easiest. But we hope that this first step will soon be outlived and that woman will deepen her knowledge of Mother-Nature and will find true, original ways of self-expression.

The Cosmos manifests unity of law, but there is no repetition in its variety. Why then does humanity alone strive toward uniformity in everything, while at the same time it violates the fundamental unity of law? Uniformity of perception, uniformity of life, and especially uniformity of thought is cherished by man. It is forgotten that uniformity of expression leads toward stagnation and death. Life and its power are in perpetual change of form. It is necessary to apply this life-giving principle in all expressions of our life.

Let us collect the most beautiful, heroic images of all times and countries, and with creative imagination let us apply their achievements in our life, taking into consideration the peculiarities of our epoch. Only such imitation will give the correct foundation for further progress.

I shall finish my address to woman with a page from The Teaching of Life:

When nations started disunity, the result was self-destruction. And only a return to balance can stop this self-destruction. Humanity does not apply the principles of creativeness in right proportion and thus violates the foundations of Being. When by the law of the Cosmic Magnet the lower forms are subordinated to the higher, this concerns only the energies which should be transmuted. But when the Origins are called to create and give life, it is impossible to remove one of the Origins without self-destruction. Therefore, humanity will start its real evolution only when both Origins are affirmed in life. All principles which do not include the understanding of the dual Origin can only increase the lack of balance. Humanity must understand the law of the Cosmic Magnet. Much can be done for evolution by the realization of the grandeur of the dual Origin which is the basis of Life.

Even this simple truth still does not find its place in the consciousness of man! Our scientists—biologists, chemists, physicists—should know the truth about the dual Element, or polarity, but they are silent. And such truth, in its most sacred and vital application, is scorned, and the rights of the strong selfishly dominate. The trouble is that the mind of man is disconnected from it source—the Cosmic Mind. Being part of the Cosmos, the human being yet does not see his solidarity, his unity with the Cosmos. And his observations of the manifestations of nature do not suggest to him any analogies. However, only in observations and comparisons with human nature is it possible to find the keys to all the mysteries of life, and therefore the solution to many problems of everyday life. People, like parrots, love to repeat the favorite ancient formula Macrocosm is microcosm! Much is said, much is repeated without the proper attention to its meaning! The enforced dogmas, human laws, and the standard of life have caused humanity to neglect the process of thinking; and the human mind, with rare exceptions, has become an automaton. Everybody is preaching various freedoms, but the most opposite schools of thought agree in one thing—they all are afraid of freedom of thought!

Therefore, woman must defend not only her own rights but the right of free thought for the whole of humanity! Through the development of thinking, our abilities will expand. Let us think with the broadest, the purest thoughts. It is said:

The kingdom is not made up of royalties or of subjects, but is created by cosmic ideas. Let us create our own cities, our countries, our planets! But let such thought be created by the heart, as only thought born of the heart is vital. The heart is the greatest Cosmic Magnet. All cosmic energies are attracted to the heart, and the heart assimilates them. The heart manifests in life all aspirations. The fire of space is attracted to the heart and the whole cosmic process lies in this principle. Therefore, the Cosmos exists in the attraction of the heart. Only the energies which are based on the attraction of the heart are vital. Thus, infinitely, the chain of life is forged by the heart.

Have you listened to your heart? Does it beat in rhythm with the Perfect Heart which embraces all of you?

Thus, I shall finish with the words about the heart. Let woman affirm this great symbol, which can transfigure the whole of life. Let her strive to transmute the spiritual life of mankind.

The mother, the life-give, the life-protector—let her become also the Mother, the Leader, the All-Giver, the All-Receiver.

19 October 1929

Today, I write using the words of the Great Teacher about the Sacrament of Hierarchy. Truly, this is a sacrament because it is based upon the immutable and exact law of the Cosmic Magnet which leads all beings to perfection. It is necessary to realize the Hierarchy clearly, precisely, and broadly as the only way toward progress. We must realize the whole chain of Hierarchy, holding strongly to our nearest link. Woe to the one who tries to skip this link and thus loses his connection. It is impossible to catch up again, as the rhythm of the movement of the whole chain will carry away the saving link. Grave indeed is this error! How much time will be lost in trying to recover the vibrating link which responds to the call. But the new link will be different in sequence and tension because the previous one has been carried away in the rhythmic striving of the whole Hierarchical chain.

Subordination of the lower to the higher represents the foundation of the whole Cosmos. Subordination of the lower to the higher will bring purification. But humanity subordinates to the lower that which should lead. When the higher leads, the transmutation of the lower occurs. This transmutation creates a valuable sequence which grows infinitely. By transmutation we mean the subordination of the lower to the higher, and we want to confirm the consciousness of mankind in the process of infinite progress.

Therefore, let us not delay the transmutation of our consciousness. Let us remember the leading Hierarch, and let us honor the nearest, the earthly Guru. The earthly Guru is given for reverence, for progress, for unity, for construction. By neglecting the Guru, by depreciating the Guru, one neglects and demeans the Great Teacher who confirmed the Guru because the Guru is the representative of the Great Teacher. Let us remember how the Lords of Light hold sacred the Sacrament of Hierarchy. The Hierarch carries the Synthesis of the Chalice and, therefore, He holds both obedience and command. The one who does not know the art of obeying will not attain the art of commanding. Beautiful are these two concepts. Conscious subordination approaches command. After the firm realization of Hierarchy, we shall with all our heart begin a deeper understanding of the Teaching of Life. It hurts the heart to feel how little understood are those treasures which the Teacher bestows so generously. On these treasures will be founded the new race. Ponder over the majesty of what is given! I feel frightened when I think of the responsibility we take upon ourselves when we accept these treasures, knowing that among us are those who still fail to realize all their value for humanity. And what is given for distribution as the most essential food for starving souls, that which should lie in the foundation of the new evolution, remains with them without appreciation. Do feel the call of my spirit! Reread as often as possible your treasures; collect all the crumbs, and with all your being merge with them. They will give you such broad and clear understanding of the most complicated problems of existence. The only way will be by absorbing it, and the austere joy of infinite progress will fill your hearts. My heart longs to inspire you with the joy of majesty and beauty which the Teaching of Life opens to you. New souls are coming and will multiply. We must be able to hold them. It is necessary to give to everyone according to his mentality. Nothing attracts people so much as the necessary word which liberates their minds and gives them new possibilities. All beings are drawn toward Light. This is the first law of the Cosmos. The Teaching and the ability to give it in full commensurability is the magnet which attracts people and all possibilities. It is that armor which can withstand all attacks, that source which brings endless joy. But it should be accepted by the heart and not by the head alone.

Love each other, respect each other, but let the inner life of each one of you be his own Holy of Holies. You are united by the Teacher, the Teaching, and by actions; but you are not the judges of each other. The judge can easily become the judged one in the eyes of the Teacher. Their measures are not our earthly measurements. This we must always remember. And a stone thrown at one's brother will weigh one down like a heavy burden. After accepting the Hierarchy, absorb the Teaching; for the only indestructible joy is the joy of that broadening of our consciousness which forces us into the higher Sacrament of Being, where all our most sacred, most holy strivings find their materialization, as the Higher Reality is above all human imagination.

13 October 1929

Lately, I have been thinking a great deal about the members of your group. Once more, I am convinced that no one can be replaced and that everyone is needed. And how simple it is, in such circumstances, to achieve the complete harmony which guarantees victory in all directions. But my heart feels that there is something that prevents this unity. What is the remedy? Of course the only solution is comprehension of the Teacher and the Teaching by the heart and not by the head alone. Therefore, we must pay attention to the development of our heart, that amazing organ which includes in itself, in its numerous centers, all creativeness and psychic life. Without development of the centers of the heart we are sterile; there is no creation of psychic life; there is no life in the higher spheres; and the crown of the Arhat is unapproachable. Only with our heart are we able to approach the consciousness of the Arhat, of the Teacher, as his consciousness is in the heart. Humanity has an obscure understanding of the Arhat, but without this understanding it is impossible to advance.

In the book, Hierarchy, it is said:

It is customary to think of an Arhat as a dweller of the clouds. The records of the drift of thought are dreadful and grotesque. Verily, We Brothers of Humanity do not recognize Ourselves in the concept of humanity. The images of Us are so fantastic! We deem that if people applied their fantasies precisely conversely Our Images would assume true form. . . . Everything takes on a new scale. Everything becomes improbable. Everything becomes uncorrelated to reality. On the way to the higher worlds, let us say, 'an Arhat is without limits in all manifestations.'. . . an Arhat proceeds carrying the power of the Cosmic Magnet in his heart!

But let us see how this Image is expressed by the Higher Consciousness.

"The heart of an Arhat is like the heart of Cosmos. The heart of an Arhat is like the fire of the Sun. Eternity and the motion of Cosmos fill the heart of the Arhat. Maitreya is coming, radiant with all fires. His Heart flames with compassion for destitute humanity. His Heart flames with the affirmation of the new Covenants.

"Among people there exists the concept of benumbed Arhats, and poor yogis feed the imaginations of men with their own images. But when humanity realizes that the Arhat is the highest manifestation of Materia Lucida, it will be understood that there is no difference between Materia Lucida, which emits Light, and that matter of love enveloping all with Light. Humanity invests the Arhat with an austere image, but Materia Lucida radiates love. . . . When will it be possible to enlighten man with Our Image?

"The mind with difficulty realizes the purity of the higher spheres. To him who is aware of the path to Us, let us say, 'Walk by the path of love. Walk by the path of labor. Walk by the path of the shield of faith!' To him who has found Our Image in his heart, We shall say, 'Walk by the way of the heart, and the Chalice will affirm the path!' To him who thinks he has attained the path through conceit, We shall say, 'Go and learn from the spirit who knows consummation.' Conceit stops all progress.

All creation is contained in the call of the heart. The entire cosmic expanse is permeated with a call, and the heart of Cosmos and the heart of an Arhat are permeated with the call. The call and the answer comprise a combination of cosmic fires. . . . The Heart of Our Brotherhood safeguards for humanity the path toward the General Good.

Each one must find the key to the Teaching in his own heart. The understanding of the Teaching of Life should inaugurate the creativeness of the spirit. The Image of the Teacher can give an enlightened path toward cosmic space. Thus, when we accept within our hearts the chosen Image, do not our hearts become aflame with love toward all beings? The creative Materia Lucida serves as embodiment for the high spirit, but this energy is attracted through love. The whole Cosmos is upheld by love. Love is the greatest magnet.

My love for all of you, and my eagerness about your progress, tells my heart to point out the necessity for improvement. . . .

Now one general suggestion. In applying this suggestion, you must remember the ordainment of the Teacher: Severity to yourself and an open heart for your brother. Only the benevolent eye can create. The Teacher always advises to apply the Teaching first of all to your own self; otherwise you will remain on the same step. It is sad when the spirit, after making its life circle, returns to the same point. It is sad when the spirit sets for itself the same limits, and its brood, as faithful fellow travelers, await at the gates.

Above all, develop the sense of justice and co-measurement. Both these qualities are measured by the heart. Therefore, begin to think about the heart so that you can remember about it and then hearken to its call. The magnet of the heart grows with sincerity and striving. There is nothing abstract in this because all the finest cosmic energies pass through the heart—all the finest energies, the most powerful and creative ones. But in order to attract these creative energies one must kindle one's own fires. Thus, build up all your fires! But do not mistake sentimentality, that weeping kindness, for the severe, wise manifestation of the heart. Remember what the Teaching says about compassion and pity. Love each other, take care of each other, and give joy to each other.

11 February 1929

Each of you is writing about his striving toward unity. What then prevents it, if you fully realize this necessity? I shall answer: lack of spiritual discipline, lack of ability to apply the Teaching, first of all, to your own self. When one needs to show tolerance, the old habit of uncontrollable antagonism, or not-outlived atavism, rises in all its strength, and then all the best intentions are immediately forgotten. Of course, it is difficult to eradicate all the bad habits at once. Therefore, let us start to rooting out with the most urgent—the driving away of intolerance. Let us write with fiery letters in our consciousness this testament of the Teaching, and let us remember it beginning and ending the day, at work and at rest.

Let us remember how the Lord Buddha taught his pupils, how He demanded that they should first of all learn how to control their temper. Only after the bridle of spirit restrained all the feelings of the pupil, only then did the Blessed One lift a little the veil of the sacred Teaching. The path of the Teaching is the same now as it was then. For coming closer and for the highest confidence, the very same foundations are necessary: reverence for the Hierarchy and the discipline of spirit.

By applying the gifts of indications and possibilities bestowed by the Generous Hand of the Teacher, we can build a great deal, elevating ourselves in the eyes of the world and in this life, completing the good karma by obedience to the guiding indications. But what will be put into our real treasury if we do not transmute our inner motives and feelings into the highest strivings? In spite of all our work in the direction pointed out by the Great Teacher, the Tower will remain inaccessible. All this sounds so complicated and difficult; and, at the same time, all is so easy and simple. If the heart burns with love and enthusiasm for the Teacher and for the beauty and breadth of the Teaching of Life, these sparks could so easily be fanned into the flame of unquenchable striving which carries us above all and everything. Strive, my friends! Is it so difficult if you have before you the Image of Beauty? Is it not the highest joy to bring every bit of yourself to the service of the General Good? The achievements are so beautiful, and there are no limits to them! But all the possibility, all the joy of it, is only in ourselves. No one can take more than he can contain—otherwise destruction will follow. The laws of Cosmos are exact and immutable. The highest joy for one may cause intense anguish in another, if assimilation is not there. Do understand this! The Rays sent to us by the Teacher in the greatest joy of his Spirit will call forth our anguish and may even ruin our organism if we are not prepared to receive them. Do understand this, my dear ones, and give access to the Rays of the Great Teacher. Each ray in Cosmos can be either creative or destructive. It all depends on correlation and assimilation, as Man, being part of the Cosmos, is subject to all its laws.

Let me quote from the book, Infinity:

The cosmic creation uses all vital impulses, tensing the levers of life. Of all the impulses the most powerful one is unity, which contains all the manifestations of life and by which are created the combinations of life. Why then not apply in life this principle? When unity struggles with differentiation, then comes a strong explosion and the fragments from the explosion are often blown far away and these particles lose their mutually attracting power. Thus, by rejecting the forces with which he is tied by karma, man causes a powerful explosion. The law can create only by unification. The element of attraction marks out the path for all the propelled energies. The Brothers of Humanity mark out the path for everything confirmed by evolution. So the force of attraction is meant to be the law of Existence. This cosmic power of unification confirms the power of Cosmic Mind.

Again let me quote:

Let us consider the revolt of a pupil. When the pupil hides his revolt against the Giving Hand of the Teacher, it means he is hiding a handful of stones. We shall remind such a pupil that the anger will be turned back upon him. Let the pupil who is counting his offerings turn toward the Giving Hand—great will be his deficiency! The pupil who considers himself more important than the Guru breaks off connection with the Teacher. In enumerating his offerings the pupil is already rewarded. It is unworthy to affirmone's own importance. From his light-minded remarks one may assume that his listing is incomplete. If these debts are not out-lived, the journey will be long. Self-conceit is a plague! One can deplore one's own deficiency, but the revolt against the Giving Hand is similar to an arrow thrown against the Shield. The pillars of the Teaching uphold the actions! Thus let us remember.

Rightly is it said about the Hierarchy:

Of course the spiral of life is built only by this principle. The creativeness of the Teacher is also manifested in eternal motion. Therefore, the saturation of a pupil must proceed through the creativeness of the Teacher. The pupil who is counting his achievements throws himself outside the boundaries of Truth. Thus, I shall say that the Hierarchy is the only Shield. Therefore, the pupil who considers his soft chair higher than the throne of his Guru, verily, must remember the Giving Hand. I grieve when the self-assertive pupil acts arrogantly. We consider arrogance against the Guru as the height of self-conceit. Thus let the pupil remember in all his steps.

Someone is wondering, Are not the results counted first of all? To this I shall answer, Could this someone count them already? The counting may not come up to expectations.

Carry the Treasures entrusted to you by the enlightened spirit and sow the seeds of spiritual creativeness, fully striving and realizing the significance of the great Gift. The result depends upon striving, which brings spiritual creativeness.

Someone is exasperated at the severity of the foregoing. But, may I ask, is it possible that this someone still remains on the first step of the call when so many pleasing things are given? Are we still at the stage of childhood when the salutary but bitter medicine is offered in chocolate-coated pills? Courage and patience must be found for throwing away the old shell to be reborn in joyful, luminous spirit. All of us have experienced the plungings of spirit. It is almost unavoidable, but it should be carefully watched because it is dangerous if the last plunge is deeper than the previous one. To rise again will be difficult, and much will be lost.

Let us hearken to the voice of our heart. Let the heart whisper what great, loving Hearts live in the Stronghold of Light, and how the inaccessibility is changed into the strongest magnet for the striving heart. Nothing can stop this attraction if the spirit has transmuted its inner fires.

You are all so dear to me, and I would like so much to have all of you around me, to whisper a gentle cheering word and, above all, to grow with all of you in the joy of understanding the infinite Teaching.

Often your calls reach me. I feel it is not easy for you, but so much bigger will be the victory. My heart often talks and calls, as the great labor is ahead of us. Let us make it easier by applying the ordainments of the Teaching. I know your firmness and devotion, but everything can be refined, and in this is the joy of our existence.

To the strong spirit the difficult time shows the shortest way. Let us welcome all the difficulties. The joy is destined, but it is necessary to withstand the attacks of the dark forces. We shall remember that will and energy are the rulers of karma. Let us apply our will power to the transmutation of our fires. Let us attract the pure fire of space. All joy will come with pure fire. Let us remember that the essence of the pure intense fire contains the quality of unification. Therefore, where unification is not manifested, there is no pure fire. But only the pure fire leads to the Tower.

I am sending all my love and support in this difficult time of the struggles of the spirit. You are surrounded by constant care. Do not doubt it. Every pupil is dear to the Teacher. Every movement of your heart echoes to the Great Heart. Not always can the projected rays reach our physical consciousness; but every minute they dispel and annihilate so many hostile sparks around you. Help these invaluable messages by your striving and by your conscious, solicitous attitude toward them. They are sent by the Perfect Heart and the Perfect Mind.

Are you convinced of the complete insolvency and dubiousness of the manifestations of the spiritual order of the majority of mediums? Each one sees only in his own sphere, no more and no less. Are you going to look for knowledge from a person only because he knows the alphabet? Look for the accumulations of the Chalice or for the great Synthesis. You have the Highest. Do not overload your aura by contacting the imperfect spheres.

11 September 1929

People will come to you with questions and indications about various psychic and mediumistic phenomena, considering them as manifestations of Agni Yoga. Therefore, I shall try to clarify this difference by quoting from the talks and books of the Teaching:

"The spirit of Agni Yoga links us with the higher spheres and connects us with the currents of the Cosmic Magnet. The quality of fire is confirmed by the tension of the magnet. The magnet of the spirit determines that step which can be manifested. The same principle guides the kindling of the centers.

"The spirit whose consciousness is on the lower planes cannot ignite the fires of the higher centers. Only the highest attracts the highest; therefore, where there is only physical striving there will be a corresponding receptivity and result. In the approaching epoch of Agni Yoga, it is necessary to know the principle of forcibly sent messages. In nature there is also direct accordance which has its limits. Only the finest can assimilate the finest, and this is the principle of the magnet. Just as the principle of the fine energies is characteristic of the highest Agni Yogi, the physical receptivity determines corresponding manifestations. Everything that is forced, everything that is ostentatiously crude, everything that is physically manifested is inferior to the subtle principle.

"An Agni Yogi possesses the highest balance; the self-denying creativeness of his spirit leads to the balance of universal correlation, and thereupon the imbalance and disharmony of the centers ends in equilibrium. The Teaching refers often to these subtle differences. Therefore, in order to progress to the next degree, it is important to understand the imbalance of the lower manifestations and the beauty of the highest harmony. The nature of an Agni Yogi is so high that comparison with any mediumistic manifestation will be like a muddy drop of water in a fiery chalice. Therefore, I shall say that the understanding of the higher fires will bring one to the pure fiery heights. The Agni Yogi is the collector of a new race. He works in the higher spheres, gathering the spirits of a new race. The manifestation of the Agni Yogi's fire has its purpose on this Earth, just as in the higher spheres. Therefore, the Agni Yogi is the connecting link between the worlds.

"The exact differences in human instruments given for different aims and confirmed by the motive power of evolution should be assimilated by the consciousness of people. When we speak about the transmutation of the fires, the confirmation of the most tensive fire of the Cosmic Magnet should be accepted. When humanity understands all the creative power of the spirit of an Agni Yogi, only then can it be said that all his centers are vibrating, responding to cosmic events. The human instrument which is used for the simple visual impress could not possibly be compared with the manifestation which reflects every breath of Cosmos. Therefore, let all those who are striving toward Agni Yoga find the highest understanding of the opened centers.

The medium, truly, has no opened centers, and the psychic eye is also not in contact with the higher worlds. Humanity has a false idea about the power of a medium, and often We are distressed seeing how people are deluded by psychic manifestations. Physical materializations attract as a magnet.

Thus, if it may be so expressed, it is usually the lowest centers of the medium that act by their primitive tension. Often it is a forced phenomenon, which does not lead to the opening of the centers but merely toward their temporary irritation. But the fires of the Agni Yogi are due to the kindling of the highest centers, which really are opened.

Strictly speaking, there are no lower centers, and the high Agni Yogi has his lower centers transmuted by the finest fires. But this transmutation takes place after the kindling of the highest centers, and then all the lower centers are subordinated to the solar plexus. We must also remember that the gradation of these fires, or rather their quality, is infinitely perfected, just as everything else in the Cosmos. But one principle is beyond doubt in determining the Agni Yogi—it is the principle of synthesis. To kindle the fires without the Synthesis of the Chalice is impossible. By this principle you can already determine the quality of the fires.

So you have the main indication by which you can distinguish the manifestations of the ignition of the centers from the lower psychic manifestations. An Agni Yogi is the carrier of the Synthesis of the Chalice—by this indication you can judge. Therefore, fill your chalices with the realization of beauty, with the true knowledge of the wisdom of the Teaching of Life, and with the assimilation of it in your heart, and remember that the heart is a great magnet which attracts all knowledge, all possibilities, and all achievements. You should remember also that there is nothing forced in the manifestations of an Agni Yogi, as the Agni Yogi is his own laboratory. He, himself, by the force of his spirit, transforms his fires. The Teacher gives the Indications of the Teaching for broadening the consciousness, but the pupil himself must apply it. The Teacher watches over the process of igniting by covering the centers with layers of soma when the ignition threatens to become a conflagration. But without the participation of the spirit of the pupil no transmutation is possible.

Of course, you should be careful in your answers, and particularly in the definitions given to the questioners because it is always necessary to remember the principle given by the Teacher: The answer must be as the ray of a physician, not as the nail of a coffin. It is necessary not to interfere, taking into consideration the level of people's consciousness. By carefully broadening it, it is possible to achieve the true understanding; but often this is a very long process, and then it is necessary to show the same kind of patience as the Great Teacher shows toward us. In the beginning, everyone needs encouragement and recognition of his abilities. It is easy to scare away and much more difficult to hold, but the Great Teacher instructs us to retain the newcomers. Moreover, sometimes a spirit with great accumulations may receive a mediumistic structure of the organism for some definite purpose, and then, through the development of a strong will, with the assistance of the Great Teacher, he can conquer the unconscious manifestations and subject them to his will. But it is not easy.

We are experiencing a difficult time, but we shall recall it with joy, as only in difficult action can strength be developed. The technique of a musician also develops only through constant exercises after which all the fingers ache.

17 December 1929

I quote to you a page from the book, Infinity. This page, with its close analogy between the seven cosmic and human manifestations, will help you once more to ponder over the seriousness of events.

Only in tension, only when all the strings are vibrating, can the cosmic task be realized. Only when the task assumes the tensive form may the predestined take place. When the foundations of Cosmos support the firmament by their attraction, the firmament can withstand. But when the foundations impede the mutual attraction, the dome is subject to unbalanced tremors; thus, the foundations can either affirm or destroy the work. The foundations can always unite the most diverse energies. Cosmos directs its energies according to polarity. Negative and positive give the manifestation of combinations.

Think over the depth of the above-mentioned, and do not impede your mutual attractions; do not evoke the shaking of the foundations. How can you estimate the results of tremors? In a partial explosion, a new foundation can be carefully built up, but often a single explosion, by the force of detonation, strikes the nearest hearths. Everywhere is the great law of analogy and similarity.

Also, you should remember to avoid turning useful forces into a jar of scorpions. The possibility was foreseen a long time ago and warning was sent. Let us learn how to apply the indications. Let us be imbued with the seriousness of the present time. Each light-mindedness is on the borderland of crime.

When we shall replace the limiting concept of I with the powerful, creative and joyous we, all the possibilities and wealth of the spirit will blossom immeasurably; our power will be increased exceedingly. People are afraid of the concept we. I can always be checked, while we is unknown and therefore threatening.

The great time predicted long ago has come. Do you not feel it in all the tension of cosmic and human explosions? All the crust of the earth is aquiver, and a great change is approaching. This time it is not the comparatively harmless tail of a comet but our own emanations which, by their discord with the approaching higher fiery energies, may evoke—or rather will evoke—an unexpected change. It is good during such perturbations to be on the solid indicated rock, under the Umbrella of Dukkar. Our tasks will all have room under this cover! One more indication:

When you create a new step, when Uranus is collecting the sixth race, then it is necessary to be imbued with the affirmed great time, and all the interfering worries should be discarded.

We must welcome all the dear ones, close in spirit; but all the destroying ones, those who bring division, must be either driven away or put in their places. We labor and create not for self-aggrandizement, not for individual personalities, but for the great General Good.

And so, remember the unprecedented, beautiful and threatening time. Not one minute should be lost! Do strengthen unity with all your forces of the spirit, and commit to strictest ostracism the petty concept of I.

I send you all the strings of my heart; let each one of you find a resounding one.

15 January 1930

Sometimes I feel so much like being with you physically, so that I might share the joy of your creative tension. You know already that the attraction of possibilities is inevitable when all the forces are strained. The law is one in the whole Cosmos. And we have already learned to love the obstacles, and we know that the obstacles which produce weakness of spirit will produce failure, while the obstacles which call forth all the fire of spirit to battle act like a creative element. The ancient wisdom says: Welcome the day of battle; do not turn away from obstacles. When there is deviation there is only detention, not salvation. The one who is not afraid to become a participant of eternal and infinite motion, truly, can accept the part of a fighter. The readiness, the undeferred rhythm will rush him into the radiance of Cosmos. Notice: Fear and hesitation are as dams to the spirit.

We must become accustomed to the constant battle and try to love it. Each atom of Cosmos is fighting! After one victory is achieved, we must be ready for the next still greater one, for in proportion to the growth of our consciousness our actions also grow, and the battle grows wider and becomes more responsible. In the whole of Cosmos the endless battle is taking place, and all of us, visibly and invisibly, are involved in it. It is time to realize this because by realizing, by strengthening our spirit, we shall become the real victors. Directed by the High Wisdom, which indicates to us the right direction, we shall cross over all abysses! And without being dazzled by the vision, joyously and luminously we may look into the future. Where are other similarly fortunate ones who can say this? Think of the advantage this knowledge gives us! What an assurance it gives to all our actions and decisions! Is it not the greatest happiness to be able to move ahead to the indicated goal, fully realizing the events and knowing that our destiny is to achieve a maximum broadening of our consciousness for the best service to the Common Good? The threatening time is very near. Do not the heat-lightnings already flash out, and are not the ominous messengers of the awakened subterranean fire breaking through? And we who know about it must urgently transmute our inner fires in order to assimilate the approaching fiery storm, as only this will give us stability in the battle, will bring us near the Hierarchy of Light, and will help to fill the chalice. Thus, let us transmute all our energies. We should start from the most stubborn energy, which is egoism (that furious dragon of selfishness with its long tail); self-conceit; love of power; self-love; touchiness; irritability; fear; doubt and other similar decorations. And we should replace them with the wings of affirmed unity; complete solidarity with all the co-workers; acknowledgment of Hierarchy; joyous strengthening of the given tasks; tolerance and gratitude for the right directions. We should conclude with—trust to the very end. All this transmutation is so simplified when hearts burn with devotion and love to the One who calls to construction and who points out the way to the Tower.

Let everyone crucify himself. Let him severely judge himself and be most considerate to all co-workers. It is necessary to crucify only oneself! We shall grow immeasurably by practising this severity upon ourselves. If someone has not finished something that was entrusted to him, do not blame him, but if possible finish it yourself. And I do beg of you, do not criticize each other. From continuous repetitions of condemnations, calluses will appear on the brain, and then how can one achieve the broadening of consciousness? Every spare moment must be utilized for progressive action, for the enrichment of the treasury, for the assimilation of the Teaching, which is still so little understood and applied. Every line evokes so many questions, comparisons, and requires immediate application in everyday life. And what is applied? The Teacher wants to see us united, wants to look at us as one heart,